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NEARLY two million people have been affected by flooding across Thailand after more than a week of heavy rain.
Water levels reached a metre high in one of the worst hit areas, Sisaket, in the east of the country, with 1,000 villagers evacuated to shelters.
Aid workers for children’s charity Plan International are liaising with then government in case further help is needed.
“In the evacuation centres, the local authorities are well organised,” says Plan’s acting programme director in Thailand, Supol Singhapoom.
“Affected people are staying in school buildings, canteens and gymnasiums, some families are staying in tents provided.
“There’s drinking water and food for people living there. Even though there are security guards, parents are still concerned for the safety of children.”
Some schools are closed and children have lost supplies and uniforms – prompting fears of disruption to exams.
Flood victims have been supplied with food and water by local authorities, military and other organisations.
“There’s still a strong need for drinking water food and medicine at present after the flood,” says Mr Singhapoom.
“If the rain remains heavy, it’ll take more than a month to get back top normal.”
For more information on Plan’s work or to make a donation call 0800 526 848 or visit www.plan-uk.org
